December 18 - Peace on Earth

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!" (Luke 2:14 NKJV)

The angels proclaimed peace on earth, but this world still knows war and conflict. The peace Jesus brought is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God in the midst of trouble. It's peace with God that leads to peace in our hearts.

Romans 5:1 says, "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Jesus came as the Reconciler to bring together warring parties - holy God and sinful man. We were enemies of God, and God was sending out His arms of love to us, but we could not be with Him because of sin.

Picture the cross coming down and bridging an enormous gap that exists. Through the Person of Jesus, God came down and stretched out His arms and took sinful humanity and holy God and brought us together - not just making us friends, but making us members of the family of God.

The peace Christ offers is not dependent on external circumstances. It's a steadiness in trouble. This past year, you may have had some turbulence, division, or strife, but God's peace can enter your life in the midst of trials.

Reflection Question: How have you experienced God's peace in the midst of difficult circumstances?

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the peace that Jesus made possible between You and me. Help me to understand and appreciate Your peace more deeply. Teach me to rest in the peace that comes from knowing I am Your child. In Jesus' Name, amen.